Frequently Asked Questions

Answers to the questions we hear most often, gathered in one place. For anything specific to your own situation, a conversation with Gwen Cantrell, BC-HIS will always give you a more precise answer than a general FAQ can.

Hearing Loss and Testing

How do I know if I actually have hearing loss?
Common signs include frequently asking people to repeat themselves, turning the TV up louder than others prefer, and struggling to follow conversation in restaurants or groups. The only reliable way to know for certain is a comprehensive hearing evaluation. See signs of hearing loss.

Is a free online hearing test as good as an in-office evaluation?
No. Online tests can flag that something may be worth investigating further, but they cannot replace diagnostic testing performed in a controlled environment with proper equipment. See our 2-minute hearing screener or restaurant hearing challenge to get a sense of the difference.

Does hearing loss get worse if I don’t treat it?
Untreated hearing loss itself does not directly damage hearing further in most cases, but it is associated with increased listening effort, social withdrawal, and, according to research cited by major medical institutions, an association with cognitive decline over time. See hearing loss and cognitive health.

Choosing Hearing Aids

What is the best hearing aid brand?
There is no single best brand for everyone. Starkey, Phonak, and Signia, the three manufacturers we carry, each solve noise-handling and connectivity differently, and the right choice depends on your specific hearing loss and priorities. See hearing aid brands.

How much do hearing aids cost?
Cost varies significantly by technology tier and what services are bundled with the device. See hearing aid prices for a realistic range.

Are more expensive hearing aids always better?
Not necessarily for you specifically. Premium tiers offer real advantages in noise handling and connectivity, but if your daily life is mostly quiet settings, a mid-tier device may perform just as well. See find the right hearing aid.

Can I try hearing aids before buying?
Yes. We offer trial periods so you can evaluate devices in your actual daily life before committing. See trials, warranties, and care plans.

Cost and Insurance

Does Medicare cover hearing aids?
Traditional Medicare does not cover hearing aids, though many Medicare Advantage plans include some hearing benefit. See Medicare and hearing aids.

Can I use my HSA or FSA to pay for hearing aids?
Yes, hearing aids are typically an eligible expense. See HSA and FSA for hearing aids.

Do you offer financing?
Yes. See hearing aid financing for available options.

Fitting and Ongoing Care

What is Real Ear Measurement and why does it matter?
It is a verification process that measures what a hearing aid actually delivers to your specific eardrum, confirming the fitting rather than relying on a computer’s prediction alone. See Real Ear Measurement.

How often do I need follow-up visits?
Most patients benefit from several adjustment visits shortly after their initial fitting, then annual checkups and reprogramming as needed afterward. See follow-up care and adjustments.

Do you repair hearing aids purchased elsewhere?
Yes, in most cases. See hearing aid repair.

How long do hearing aids typically last?
Most hearing aids remain in good working condition for five to seven years with proper care. See the hearing aid maintenance guide for how to extend that lifespan.

Special Situations

Can hearing aids help with hearing loss in only one ear?
Depending on the type and severity, CROS or BiCROS technology may help. See CROS and BiCROS hearing aids.

My hearing loss happened suddenly. What should I do?
Seek medical evaluation promptly, since some causes of sudden hearing loss are time-sensitive and treatable. See sudden hearing loss.

Do you offer mobile hearing care for someone who cannot travel to the clinic?
Yes. See mobile hearing care for in-home and community options.